Funeral Positions.
When all is ready, the services should commence with a short strain of solemn music, "The Lord is my Shepherd," etc. After which the Worthy Patron will say:
W. P. Sisters and Brothers, we have gathered at this solemn hour to perform those final rites which affection has prescribed for our departed sister. She, who was with us but yesterday, has been summoned hence by a messenger who cometh sooner or later for us all.
How appropriately may we gather around her remains, and together pay love's tribute to her memory.
She has indeed passed beyond the reach of praise, or the touch of censure. It is not, therefore, to her that we tender this our heart's saddest offering.
We are here in acknowledgment of sacred ties now severed, of memories tenderly cherished, and hearts touched with sympathy for loved ones bereaved.
Our sister has finished her allotted task in the conflict of life. The chapter of her earthly sojourn is closed, but her many virtues shall not go unrecorded.
For a time we have walked with her in the pilgrimage of life, and around the same altar we have learned the lessons of our Order.
As she was faithful to her convictions of right, as she was obedient to the demands of honor and justice in her station; as she loved kindred and friends, and in affliction evinced a trustful faith; and as she lived in the spirit of charity and the love of truth, so shall be her reward.
Remembering her many virtues, we are indeed mourners at her grave, and in the house of sorrow we would drop the tear of affectionate sympathy.